Round three predictions

12 Feb 2020

Round three predictions

Oli Lathrope and Warren Holmes give their 2020 Betfred Super League round three predictions.

Wigan Warriors v Toronto Wolfpack

OL: It is hard to see anything but a Wigan win. Toronto improved against Salford and might have emerged with the victory on another day. However, the competition steps up another level against a Warriors side that will want to get back on track after losing against the Tigers. 

WH: There’s only one winner in this game. Wigan Warriors. Toronto have had a tough start to the season. They’ve lost both games and already have a depleted squad. Sonny Bill Williams may miss the game as he has been rumoured to be returning home for a few weeks. Wigan need to improve on their loss at Castleford and a home fixture against Toronto is the perfect opportunity. 

Prediction: Wigan win. 

Leeds Rhinos v Hull KR

OL: Tough one to call. Hull KR would have surprised a few with their performances in the opening two rounds. The Rhinos flattered to deceive against Hull FC in their only game so far. I think Leeds get off the mark this season and edge a tight game by 5-7 points.

WH: Hull KR have impressed in both of their games this year. Against Wakefield they picked up two points but fell short in the derby. However, Tony Smith has got his side playing expansive and unpredictable rugby. This will be an evenly matched game with Leeds having an extra week’s rest after their game against Huddersfield Giants was postponed due to Storm Ciara.

Prediction: Leeds win. 

Salford Red Devils v Huddersfield Giants

OL: The Giants will be itching to get playing again. It has been two weeks since their excellent opening round triumph at Catalans. They face another stiff away trip against a Red Devils outfit that have a win and a loss so far. Huddersfield won on one of their trips to the AJ Bell Stadium last season, and I fancy them to get another on Friday night.

WH: Salford picked up their first victory against Toronto last weekend. Huddersfield’s game was postponed due to the storm and they’ve had plenty of rest since their opening round victory over Catalans. Aidan Sezer to inspire a Huddersfield victory again. 

Prediction: Huddersfield win. 

Catalans Dragons v Castleford Tigers

OL: Most people were shocked to see the Dragons lose their home opener against Huddersfield two week ago. They will face another stern challenge in this match against a good Tigers side. But they don't lose in Perpignan very often, and I think Catalans get the job done.

WH: Castleford made it two wins out of two with a home victory against Wigan on Friday. It’ll be a tough ask for Castleford to go to Perpignan and the French side could hand Israel Folau his debut.

Prediction: Catalans win. 

Hull FC vs St Helens

OL: The game of the weekend. It is a real shame that is has not been selected for TV coverage. The Black and Whites have been the best side so far this season. Saints, however, looked depleted against Warrington with all their injury troubles. I think they will come unstuck again at the KCOM Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Hull FC to win their third in a row.

WH: This is a tough one to call. Hull FC have looked good in their first two games, however, Manu Ma’u is set to miss out due to injury and Chris Satae has been given a three-match ban by the Match Review Panel. St Helens struggled against Warrington, but I expect this to be a closer game. 

Prediction: Hull FC win. 

Wakefield Trinity vs Warrington Wolves

OL: The Wolves' performance against St Helens was one of their finest in recent years. They overwhelmed the defending champions, and they should be taken seriously as a threat to win Super League. Wakefield are still searching for their first win, but I don't think they get it here. Warrington by 10-15.

WH: Warrington have looked good in their first two games. They’ll play a Wakefield side who lost to KR in their first game of the season, their second game was postponed due to Storm Ciara. Warrington’s pack will dominate, and they’ll have some great flair players at their disposal in Blake Austin and Matty Ashton. 

Prediction: Warrington win.

By Oli Lathrope & Warren Holmes